U.S. Embassy warns citizens against international cannabis travel

The United States Embassy in the Dominican Republic has issued a warning to American citizens regarding the risks of traveling internationally with cannabis and its derivatives. The diplomatic mission emphasized that travelers are subject to the local laws of their destination country, regardless of whether cannabis is legal in their home state or residence within the United States.

The warning covers a wide range of substances, including marijuana, THC, CBD, edibles, oils, concentrates, and vape cartridges. This advisory also extends to medicinal marijuana, even when prescribed by a healthcare professional. The Embassy noted that many countries impose severe criminal penalties for possession, and crossing international borders with these products can lead to arrest and legal sanctions, even in regions where such substances have been decriminalized.

To prevent accidental violations, the Embassy recommends that travelers start with a completely empty suitcase and carefully inspect all compartments and pockets to ensure no products like edibles or oils remain inadvertently. Citizens are urged to research the specific laws and prohibited item lists of their destination countries via the U.S. Department of State website before departure.